Anti-anxiety drugs Flashcards
1
Q
What is commonly used reduce anxiety?
A
benzodiazepines (BZs) They are manufactured under various trade names such as : Librium, Xanax, Valium and Diazepam
2
Q
What do BZ’s do?
A
they slow down the activity of the CNS and enhance the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA and when released has a quietening effect on many of the neurons in the brain
3
Q
How do BZ’s help with OCD?
A
GABA receptors react with receiving neurons
When GABA locks into these receptors it increases the flow of chloride ions into the neuron
Chloride ions make it harder for the neuron to be stimulated by neurotransmitters thus slowing down activity and making a person feel relaxed
